Ozone from Rock Fracture Could Serve as Earthquake Early Warning

Resource:
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/11/111117154635.htm

Summary:
For years, researchers have been trying to find a way to predict what at times can be one of Earth’s most dangerous happenings, earthquakes. Researchers discovered that when rocks break from a large amount of pressure, they release ozone. A team of scientists at the University of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science set up an experiment to measure the amount of ozone released by different types of rock. They found that ozone is only released when exposed to air, so it’s a chemical reaction. The rock rhyolite had the highest level of ozone. Before an earthquake, pressure builds up under the surface causing the rocks to break. If they can find a relation between earthquakes and ozone levels, this could potentially lead to a earthquake warning system.

Critique:
I think this is very interesting. I had no idea that rocks release ozone, or anything for that matter! I think it’s a great discovery and will hopefully help scientists predict earthquakes.

Impact:
If this discovery can help scientists predict earthquakes, it will impact the world so much. People will be ready for earthquakes and not as many individuals will die. Earthquakes can be very dangerous and I think we should do everything we can so we’re prepared and not have as many deaths. This would truly save lives.